Author: Megan Jenkinson
Is range anxiety holding you back from going electric? There has been some speculation online about the cold weather impacting battery performance, so I have spoken to an EV owner to get some real answers.
With over 1 million fully electric cars on the road (as of 2024) [1], EVs are becoming increasingly popular. However, the transition from ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) vehicles to EV is a big step for some people and there is a lot of speculation that is a cause for concern for some of those considering the switch.
Amongst those concerns, is the dreaded range loss. It has been found on average that EVs can lose from 15-20% of their range during the winter because of the cold weather [2][3].
To better understand how EVs perform during the winter months, I spoke with Jack Fisher, an EV owner with over a year of experience driving his used Jaguar I-Pace (2019). In our conversation, Jack shared valuable insights and answered some of the most common questions people have about the winter performance of electric vehicles.
Have you ever had any problems with your EV that have been caused by cold weather?
No, I’ve never experienced any issues with my EV due to cold weather – it has started reliably every time. (Touch wood, I hope this continues!) Modern EVs are designed to handle a wide range of temperatures, and I’ve found mine to be dependable regardless of the conditions.
Do you notice a change in range or battery life in winter? If, so are there measures you can put in places to enhance battery life?
Yes, colder weather does affect the range, and I’ve noticed it can drop by around 10% of the total mileage, which is roughly 30 miles in my case.
To try managing this, I recommend using the vehicle’s preconditioning feature. This function warms up the battery before you drive, optimising its performance in cold conditions. Additionally, preconditioning the battery before heading to a charging station can speed up the charging process, as the battery performs better when it’s at an optimal temperature.
What is EV preconditioning?
When I first got my electric car, I didn’t know what preconditioning was – but it’s genius! Before I even step out the door, my car is already getting itself ready – the batteries at the perfect temperature ready for use and expanding its range and the cabin’s warmed up. I used to hate getting into a cold car in the winter. Now, my EV essentially preps itself. It’s great in the summer too as it will cool the interior off.
Do you find that there is a difference between driving an EV compared to an ICE vehicle in winter?
Absolutely. One of the major advantages is that you don’t have to wait for the vehicle to ‘warm up’ before driving – it’s ready to go immediately. This convenience, coupled with features like regenerative braking, makes EVs well-suited for winter driving.
What is regenerative braking?
Regenerative braking captures energy when you slow down and uses it to recharge the car’s battery. Basically, when you lift your foot off the accelerator or press the brakes, the electric motor flips into reverse mode and acts like a generator. It slows the car down while producing electricity, which gets fed back into the battery. It’s great because it helps extend the car’s range, makes braking more efficient, and even reduces wear on the brakes, so you save on maintenance.
Do you feel prepared for long drives and unexpected emergencies with your EV in winter?
Yes, I feel well-prepared. I make it a habit to charge my car at home every evening, ensuring I start the day with a full charge, which gives me around 250-300 miles of range. For longer trips, I plan and map out charging stations along the route. With charging stations becoming increasingly common as petrol stations, I rarely feel concerned about running out of charge.
On a separate note, I am aware that my car is now 5 years old and sudden faults can occur at any time. Something that helps give me peace of mind is my extended warranty. I can relax a little knowing that EV-specific components like the drive battery and auxiliary battery are included, helping protect me from unexpected repair costs.
Have you got any top tips for other EV owners on how you can get the most out of the performance of your EV in winter?
Preconditioning is key – it warms up the battery before you start driving, which improves both range and comfort. In my car, this can be done manually or scheduled through the app, which is especially useful if you have a consistent schedule. Additionally, maintaining a regular charging routine and keeping an eye on the weather forecast can help you plan better for winter journeys.
What do you love most about your EV in winter?
The sheer comfort and advanced technology that helps make my day a little easier. I love never having to step into a cold car or spend time scraping ice off the windows. With the preconditioning feature, the car is warm and ready to go whenever I am, making winter mornings much more enjoyable.
My takeaway
Jack’s insights offer a new perspective on winter driving with an EV and whilst there are challenges, such as range loss, they can be easily managed with a little preparation.
For me, the standout features are preconditioning and the ability to drive away immediately without having to wait for the vehicle to warm up – these two small conveniences make the thought of owning an EV much more appealing, especially when we hit the winter months.
If you’re considering making the switch to electric, don’t let winter weather concerns deter you. As Jack highlighted, with a few simple adjustments, you can enjoy a reliable and comfortable driving experience while reducing emissions and lowering running costs.
Be future ready with Warrantywise
Stay ahead this winter by protecting your finances with an extended EV warranty. Our EV and EV Plus plans offer financial protection and peace of mind regardless of season. While no warranty includes everything, our EV plans, based on your vehicle’s age and mileage, can be enhanced to suit your needs (subject to terms and conditions).